Buffalo Bill Rodeo

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Sports & AdventureNorth Platte
DatesDates TBA · Usually JuneCheck locally before booking
Duration1 dayListed event span
Crowd-Public scale varies
Best forCompetition, enduranceFew rodeos anywhere can claim a direct
LanguageLocal language; English access variesCurrency: USD
CategorySports & AdventureFestival type
The story

Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte

The Buffalo Bill PRCA Rodeo traces its origin to July 4, 1882, when William F. Buffalo Bill Cody staged the Old Glory Blowout in North Platte, an event historians recognize as America's first spectator rodeo. Now held each June as part of NEBRASKAland Days, the rodeo runs on grounds tied to Cody's historic Scout's Rest Ranch and stands as Nebraska's largest outdoor rodeo.

On July 4, 1882, the citizens of North Platte, Nebraska approached a local rancher and showman named William F.
Your trip starts here
What is special

The part that makes it specific.

01

The place changes

Few rodeos anywhere can claim a direct, documented lineage back to the actual birth of the sport, but the Buffalo Bill Rodeo can: Cody's 1882 Old Glory Blowout, staged as a Fourth of July celebration for North Platte, is recognized by rodeo historians as the first event of its kind ever held for spectators, predating the more famous rodeo circuits by decades

02

The mystery stays covered

Competing on grounds connected to Cody's own Scout's Rest Ranch gives the modern PRCA rodeo a physical link to that founding moment that no relocated or newly established rodeo could replicate

03

The city starts moving

Its 2022-era induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame further cements its status as a historically significant event within the sport rather than simply a large regional competition

Traditions & symbols

The language of the festival.

What moves first

Living ritual

The rodeo's founding tradition traces directly to Buffalo Bill Cody's 1882 Old Glory Blowout

Water and renewal

Living ritual

held in conjunction with Nebraska's last major open-range roundups

The sacred route

Living ritual

the modern event continues that Independence Day-adjacent Western competition spirit each June as part of NEBRASKAland Days

The local code

Living ritual

staged on grounds historically tied to Cody's Scout's Rest Ranch

Before you go

Essential information

When to go

Dates TBA · Usually June

Getting around

For Buffalo Bill Rodeo, plan transport around the exact North Platte venue, route or gathering point rather than the city name alone.

What to wear

Western wear suits the rodeo atmosphere well: boots, jeans, and a hat, though any comfortable outdoor clothing works for an open-air arena; sun protection for daytime performances and a...

Safety

Keep valuables light, follow local instructions, and watch how residents use the space before joining in.

Where to stay

For Buffalo Bill Rodeo, stay near the part of North Platte you will actually use, with reliable return transport.

Tickets/cost

Check official or local sources for ticketed areas, paid stands, and same-year access rules.

Language/currency

USD

Family friendly

unknown

Interactive map41.12 N, 100.77 WOpen in Google Maps

North Platte, NE

Nearest airportLBF — North Platte Regional Airport Lee Bird Field
TransportFor Buffalo Bill Rodeo, plan transport around the exact North Platte venue, route or gathering point rather than the city name alone.
Stay areaFor Buffalo Bill Rodeo, stay near the part of North Platte you will actually use, with reliable return transport.

Your Trip Starts Here

External travel services to turn the plan into a trip — each opens in a new tab.

How to get thereRoutes, times and prices to North Platte via local transport.Search routesFind a place to stayStays near North Platte, close enough for the event-day route.Browse staysFind flightsCompare fares into the nearest practical airport for June.Compare faresFestival gearWestern wear suits the rodeo atmosphere well: boots, jeans, and a hat, though any comfortable outdoor clothing works for an open-air arena; sun protection for daytime performances and a light layer for cooler evening events are both worth packing.Shop the kitCheck visa requirementsSee whether you need a visa for United States and apply online.Check entry rulesTravel insuranceCover for trip hiccups, gear and health on the road.Get covered

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FAQ

Quick answers.

When is Buffalo Bill Rodeo?

Buffalo Bill Rodeo is listed for Past edition: 20 June 2026. Always re-check the official or local source close to travel.

Where does Buffalo Bill Rodeo take place?

The festival is listed in North Platte, United States. The map coordinate is a planning reference, not a guarantee of a ticket gate or exact venue.

How long should I plan for?

One day is the listed festival span. Add time for arrival, local transport, queues, and any route changes during the event.

Is a source linked?

Official source linked. Eventisimus separates source confidence from travel suggestions, so check final details before booking.

Where exactly is it?

North Platte, NE

Is it family friendly?

unknown

Sources and editorial review

About this guide

This guide is independently written by Eventisimus using publicly available information, official event and organiser sources where available, local tourism references, and additional editorial research. Eventisimus is not the official organiser of this festival and is not affiliated with it unless explicitly stated.

Festival dates, schedules, ticket conditions, access rules, and local arrangements can change. We aim to present useful and accurate information, but travelers should confirm important details with the official event source before booking transport, accommodation, or tickets.

Found something inaccurate or outdated? Email hello@eventisimus.com with the festival page link and the correction.

Official URLnebraskalanddays.com
Organizer accessAre you the organizer? Claim this listing →
SourceSource link available
Listed datesDates TBA · Usually June
Source statusOfficial source linked
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